Optical fiber connectors and methods of connecting optical fibers

ABSTRACT

A connector for optically connecting an optical fiber to an optical fiber port, the connector defining a first length, L 1 , as measured between a leading edge and a trailing edge of the connector when the connector is in a locked configuration, and a second length, L 2 , as measured between the leading edge and the trailing edge of the connector when the connector is in an unlocked configuration, wherein L 1  is different than L 2 . In an embodiment, L 2  is greater than L 1 . In another embodiment, the connector comprises a boot and a housing, and the boot and housing are configured to float relative to one another.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to connectors for optical fibers, and inparticular, but not exclusively, to connectors for duplex optical fibercables.

BACKGROUND

In data communications systems, optical fiber systems having a pluralityof optical fiber cables are frequently used to connect betweencommunication nodes. Typically, the optical fiber cables include a pairof optical fibers known as duplex optical fiber cables, one fortransmitting and one for receiving (typically, the receiving fiber islabeled A and the transmitting fiber is labeled B). The overall effectof the data communications cabling is that the transmitting cables Bconnect with receiving ports A, and the receiving cables A connect withtransmitting ports B. However, during installation, it is not uncommonfor the installer to get confused between the transmitting and receivingcables and a cross-over can occur such that the transmitting cables Bare not connected with receiving port A, and vice versa. For manyconnector types, installers are prevented from simply unplugging theduplex cable connectors and reinserting them in another orientationbecause the connectors are unidirectional and therefore can only beinserted into the complementary receiving ports in one orientation.Thus, it is necessary for the installer to replace the existing cable orremove the connecting head from the fibers and effectively remanufacturethe cable on site, which is very cumbersome and time consuming.

Another problem with duplex optical fiber cable connectors is that itcan be difficult to remove the connector from the receiving port. Thisis particularly true for panels having a high density of connectors,which means there is limited space around each connector. Thus, it canbe difficult for a user to manipulate the locking levers when removingthe connector from the panel.

Accordingly, an improved optical fiber connector, particularly forduplex optical fiber cables, is desired.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in thefollowing description, or may be obvious from the description, or may belearned through practice of the invention.

In accordance with one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to aconnector including a housing configured to receive an optical fiber andoptically connect the optical fiber to an optical fiber port at aleading edge of the connector. The connector comprises a latch coupledto the housing and extending from the housing toward the leading edge ofthe connector. The connector also comprises a handle coupled to thelatch. The handle is configured to move the latch between locked andunlocked positions with respect to the optical fiber port. Moving thehandle away from the leading edge of the connector is configured tounlock the latch from the optical fiber port.

In accordance with another aspect, the present disclosure is directed toa connector for an optical fiber. The connector comprises a latchextending from a housing of the connector in a direction toward aleading edge of the connector. The latch is configured to selectivelycouple the connector to an optical fiber port. At least 25% of a lengthof the latch lies along a curved line when the latch is unbiased.

In accordance with another aspect, the present disclosure is directed toa method of decoupling a connector from an optical fiber port. Themethod includes moving a handle of the connector in a direction awayfrom the optical fiber port. The handle is coupled to a latch of theconnector. The latch is coupled to a housing of the connector an extendstoward a leading edge of the connector. The method further includesremoving the connector from the optical fiber port.

In accordance with another aspect, a connector for optically connectingan optical fiber to an optical fiber port defines a first length, L₁, asmeasured between a leading edge and a trailing edge of the connectorwhen the connector is in a locked configuration, and a second length,L₂, as measured between the leading edge and the trailing edge of theconnector when the connector is in an unlocked configuration, wherein L₁is different than L₂.

In accordance with another aspect, a connector assembly for opticallyconnecting an optical fiber to an optical fiber port includes a housingconfigured to receive the optical fiber. The housing includes a latchconfigured to selectively couple the housing to the optical fiber port.The connector further includes a boot having a bore configured toreceive the optical fiber. Displacing the boot relative to the housingcauses the latch to be unlocked from the optical fiber port.

In accordance with another aspect, a method of releasing a connectorfrom an optical fiber port includes applying a biasing force to a bootof the connector in a direction way from a housing of the connector. Thehousing includes a latch configured to selectively couple the connectorto the optical fiber port. Applying the biasing force to the boot causesa length of the connector, as measured by a length between a leadingedge of the housing and a trailing edge of the boot, to change. Themethod further includes removing the connector form the optical fiberport after the latch is transitioned to an unlocked configuration.

In accordance with another aspect, a connector assembly for opticallyconnecting an optical fiber to an optical fiber port can include ahousing configured to receive the optical fiber. The housing can includea latch configured to selectively couple the housing to the opticalfiber port. The latch can have a curved profile in both locked andunlocked configurations. The radius of curvature of the latch can begreater in the unlocked configuration than the locked configuration. Thelatch can be biased from the locked configuration to the unlockedconfiguration upon application of a biasing force along a boot of theconnector. More particularly, the latch can move to the unlockedconfiguration upon application of a biasing force on the boot in adirection generally away from the housing. An intermediary elementconnecting the boot to the latch can transmit the biasing force to thelatch, causing the latch to move to the unlocked configuration uponwhich the connector can be removed from the optical fiber port.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood with reference to the followingdescription and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which areincorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrateembodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serveto explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including thebest mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is setforth in the specification, which makes reference to the appendedfigures.

FIG. 1 includes a perspective view of a connector in accordance with oneor more embodiments of the present disclosure as viewed in an unbiasedstate.

FIG. 2 includes a side view of the connector of FIG. 1 in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure as viewed in anunbiased state.

FIG. 3 includes a perspective view of a connector in accordance with oneor more embodiments of the present disclosure as viewed in an unbiasedstate.

FIG. 4 includes a side view of the connector of FIG. 3 in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure as viewed in anunbiased state.

FIG. 5 includes a side view of the connector of FIGS. 3 and 4 inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6A includes an enlarged view of a latch of the connector of FIGS. 3to 5 in an unbiased state as seen in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6B includes an enlarged view of the latch of the connector of FIG.6A in a biased state as seen in accordance with one or more embodimentsof the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 includes a top view of a handle of a connector in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 includes a top view of a connector in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9A includes a side view of a connector coupled with an opticalfiber port in accordance with one or more embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 9B includes a side view of the connector of FIG. 9A in a biasedstate for removal from the optical fiber port in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 includes a method of decoupling a connector from an opticalfiber port in accordance with one or more embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 11 includes a perspective view of a connector in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 includes a perspective view of a boot of a connector inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 13A and 13B include top views of various embodiments ofintermediary elements of a connector in accordance with embodiments ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 14 includes a perspective view of a connector in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 includes a side elevation view of a connector in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 includes a perspective view of an intermediary element of aconnector in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 includes a perspective view of a connector in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 includes a perspective view of a boot of a connector inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 19 includes a top perspective view of an intermediary element of aconnector in accordance with one or more embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 20 includes a bottom perspective view of an intermediary element ofa connector in accordance with one or more embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 21 includes a side view of a connector in a locked configuration inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 22 includes a side view of a connector in an unlocked configurationin accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 23 includes a side view of a connector in an unassembledconfiguration in accordance with one or more embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 24 includes a bottom perspective view of a connector in anunassembled configuration in accordance with one or more embodiments ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 25 includes a bottom perspective view of a connector in anunassembled configuration in accordance with one or more embodiments ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 26 includes a rear perspective view of a connector in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 27 includes a front perspective view of a connector in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention,one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Repeatuse of reference characters in the present specification and drawings isintended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of thepresent invention. Each example is provided by way of explanation of theinvention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparentto those skilled in the art that various modifications and variationscan be made in the present invention without departing from the scope orspirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or describedas part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield astill further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the presentinvention covers such modifications and variations as come within thescope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be usedinterchangeably to distinguish one component from another and do notnecessarily signify sequence or importance of the individual components.As used herein, terms of approximation, such as “generally,” or “about”include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value.When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms includewithin ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction.For example, “generally vertical” includes directions within ten degreesof vertical in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise.

Referring now to the Figures, the present disclosure is generallydirected to a connector for optical fibers. FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate anexemplary connector 100 including a housing 102, a boot 104, and ahandle 106. The connector 100 may engage with an optical fiber 108extending from the housing 102 through the boot 104.

In one or more embodiments, the housing 102 can include a plurality ofpieces configured to engage with one another to form the housing 102.For instance, the housing 102 can include two or more pieces that snapfit together in a releasable manner via snap fit connectors. The housing102 can include a trailing end aperture (not illustrated) and leadingend aperture(s) 110. A section of optical fiber cable can be disposedwithin the housing 102 and extend at least partially between thetrailing end aperture and the leading end aperture(s) 110. In anembodiment, the optical fiber 108 can be inserted into the housing 102through the trailing end aperture. The boot 104 can overlay a portion ofthe optical fiber 108 and a trailing portion 112 of the housing 102. Theboot 104 may provide stress relief to the optical fiber 108, preventingundesirable stress loading of the optical fiber 108 at an interface withthe housing 102.

The optical fiber 108 can furcate inside the housing 102 into first andsecond optical fibers (not illustrated). The first optical fiber canexit the housing 102 via a first leading end aperture and the secondoptical fiber can exit the housing 102 via a second leading endaperture. The first optical fiber may correspond with a receiving fiber(A) and the second optical fiber may correspond with a transmittingfiber (B).

The first optical fiber may extend into a bore 116 formed in a firstinner body 114 and the end of the first optical fiber can be connectedto a first ferrule 118. The first inner body 114 may protrude from thehousing 102 via the first leading end aperture 110 of the housing 102.In an embodiment, the first inner body 114 may be fixed with respect tothe housing 102. The first inner body 114 can include, for example,engagement portions (not illustrated) to secure the first inner body 114to the housing 102. The engagement portions may prevent extrusion of thefirst inner body 114 from the housing 102 and/or prevent rotationbetween the first inner body 114 and the housing 102. Moreover, theengagement portions may maintain the first inner body 114 at a fixedrelative position with respect to the housing 102.

The first ferrule 118 may protrude out of the bore 116 formed in thefirst inner body 114. The first ferrule 118 and/or first inner body 114may generally define a leading edge 120 of the connector 102. Theleading edge 120 may be insertable into an optical fiber port (FIG. 9),e.g., part of an optical fiber panel, to permit optical connectionbetween the optical fiber 108 and another optical fiber (notillustrated) contained within or coupled to the panel.

The second optical fiber may extend into a bore 122 formed in a secondinner body 124. The end of the second optical fiber can be connected toa second ferrule 126 which protrudes from the bore 122. The second innerbody 124 may be fixed with respect to the housing 102. The second innerbody 124 can include engagement portions (not illustrated), similar toor different from the engagement portions previously described withrespect to the first inner body 114, to secure the second inner body 124to the housing 102. The engagement portions may prevent extrusion of thesecond inner body 124 from the housing 102 and/or prevent rotationbetween the second inner body 124 and the housing 102. Moreover, theengagement portions may maintain the second inner body 124 at a fixedrelative position with respect to the housing 102.

In one or more embodiments, the housing 102 and the first and secondinner bodies 114 and 124 may be formed from interconnected pieces. Thatis, for example, the first and second inner bodies 114 and 124 may beintegral with the housing 102. Alternatively, the first and secondbodies 114 and 124 can include discrete components configured to engagewith the housing 102. For example, the first and second bodies 114 and124 may be engageable with the housing 102, e.g., upon snap fitting twoor more pieces of the housing 102 to one another.

Connectors in accordance with one or more embodiments described hereinmay be capable of reversing polarity. That is, for example, the polarityof the first and second optical fibers, as seen with respect to theposition of a latch (described in greater detail below), may beinterchangeable. More specifically, the receiving fiber (A) andtransmitting fiber (B) can be interchanged. In an embodiment, thereceiving fiber (A) and transmitting fiber (B) can be switched relativeto the housing 102. For example, the housing 102 can have a removablesurface through which the receiving fiber (A) and transmitting fiber (B)can be accessed to allow an operator to change the positions thereof. Inanother embodiment, the housing 102 can be removed from other componentsof the connector 100 (e.g., the boot 104) and reinstalled in an invertedorientation (i.e., reverse polarity). The latch (described in greaterdetail below) can be coupled to the housing 102 (e.g., integral with thehousing 102) such that rotation of the housing 102 results in rotationof the latch. Through reversible polarity, the operator may adjust theconnector(s) in situ, thereby reducing costs and allowing the operatorto carry fewer redundant components.

As discussed above, the connector 100 may further include a latch 128extending from the housing 102. In an embodiment, the latch 128 caninclude a first latch 130 and a second latch 132. The first latch 130can correspond with the first inner body 114 and the second latch 132can correspond with the second inner body 124. That is, the first latch130 may extend over a portion of the first inner body 114 and the secondlatch 132 may extend over a portion of the second inner body 124.

The latch 128 (hereinafter referring to the first and second latches 130and 132 collectively as the latch 128) may be arranged to releasablylock the connector 100 with a complementary connector device. Forexample, the connector 100 may be used with an optical fiber portincluding mating components (not illustrated) configured to receive andsecure the connector 100 through one or more locking formations 134disposed on the latch 128. In the illustrated embodiment, the lockingformation(s) 134 include ramped surfaces located adjacent to a leadingend 136 of the latch 128. As described in greater detail herein, theleading end 136 of the latch 128 can be spaced apart from the housing102, permitting the locking formation(s) 134 to move relatively closerand farther away from the housing 102 to lock and unlock the connector100 with respect to the optical fiber port.

The latch 128 may be engaged with the housing 102 at a trailing end 138of the latch 128. In an embodiment, the latch 128 may be integral withthe housing 102. That is, the latch 128 may be integrally part of thehousing 102. In another embodiment, the latch 128 may include one ormore discrete components configured to engage with the housing 102.

The leading end 136 of the latch 128 can be spaced apart from thetrailing end 138 of the latch 128 by a middle portion 140 of the latch128. In an embodiment, the middle portion 140 can include a middleportion of the latch 128 (as viewed from a side view) between 1% and 99%of the length of the latch 128, such as between 10% and 90% of thelength of the latch 128. The connector 100 in the illustrated embodimenthas a relatively straight middle portion 140, as viewed from a side view(FIG. 2), when the latch 128 is in an unbiased state. That is, themiddle portion 140 of the latch 128 may be generally planar prior toapplication of force along the handle 106, as described in greaterdetail herein.

The latch 128 can generally extend from the housing 102 in a directiontoward the leading edge 120 of the connector 100. For example, thetrailing end 138 of the latch 128 may extend from the housing 102 and atleast part of the middle portion 140 can be oriented in a directiongenerally toward the leading edge 120 of the connector 100. Thus, theleading end 136 of the latch 128 may be disposed at a position closer tothe leading edge 120 of the connector 100 than the trailing end 138 ofthe latch 128. In an embodiment, the latch 128 can be cantilevered.

In one or more embodiments, the latch 128 can further include a handleengagement member 142 forming an interface configured to engage with thehandle 106. In an embodiment, the handle engagement member 142 may forma releasable interface with the handle 106. In such a manner, the handle106 can be selectively removable from the latch 128. In certaininstances, the discrete handle 106 may permit easier formation of theconnector 100 by allowing more complex connector geometry otherwise notpossible in certain formation processes, e.g., molding. In theillustrated embodiment, the handle engagement member 142 includes aretention member 144, e.g., a lip, configured to maintain engagementbetween the handle 106 and the handle engagement member 142. In anotherembodiment, the handle 106 can be integrally formed with the housing102, such as at the latch 128.

The handle 106 may extend between a latch engagement end 146 and a pullend 148. The latch engagement end 146 can include one or more openings150 configured to align with the latch 128 and other components of thehousing 102 to permit locking and unlocking operations as described ingreater detail herein. The handle 106 may have a variable profile, e.g.,taper, between the latch engagement end 146 and the pull end 148. In anembodiment, the handle 106 can define a taper profile, as viewed from atop view (e.g., FIG. 8), similar to the taper profile of the connector100.

In an embodiment, one or more indicia can be included on the handle 106to indicate, for example, which direction to pull the handle 106 tounlock the connector 100 from the optical fiber port.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate an embodiment of a connector 300. The connector300 can have any number of similar or different features as compared tothe connector 100 previously described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2.For example, the connector 300 may include a housing 302, a boot 304,and a handle 306. The connector 300 may engage with an optical fiber308.

In one or more embodiments, the housing 302 can include a plurality ofpieces configured to engage with one another to form the housing 302.For instance, the housing 302 can include two or more pieces that snapfit together in a releasable manner via snap fit connectors. The housing302 can include a trailing end aperture (not illustrated) and first andsecond leading end apertures 310. A section of optical fiber cable canbe disposed within the housing 302 and extend at least partially betweenthe trailing end aperture and the first and second leading end apertures310. The optical fiber 308 can be inserted into the housing 302 throughthe trailing end aperture. The boot 304 can overly a portion of theoptical fiber 308 and a trailing portion 312 of the housing 302.

The optical fiber 308 can furcate inside the housing 302 into first andsecond optical fibers (not illustrated). The first optical fiber canexit the housing 302 via the first leading end aperture 310 and thesecond optical fiber can exit the housing 302 via the second leading endaperture 310. The first optical fiber may correspond with a receivingfiber (A) and the second optical fiber may correspond with atransmitting fiber (B).

The first optical fiber may be threaded into a bore 316 formed in afirst inner body 314 and the end of the first optical fiber can beconnected to a first ferrule 318. The first inner body 314 may protrudefrom the housing 302 via the first leading end aperture 310. The firstinner body 314 may be fixed with respect to the housing 302. The firstinner body 314 can include engagement portions (not illustrated) tosecure the first inner body 314 to the housing 302. The engagementportions may prevent extrusion of the first inner body 314 from thehousing 302 and/or prevent rotation between the first inner body 314 andthe housing 302. Moreover, the engagement portions may maintain thefirst inner body 314 at a fixed relative position with respect to thehousing 302.

The first ferrule 318 may protrude out of the bore 316 formed in thefirst inner body 314. The first ferrule 318 and/or first inner body 314may generally define a leading edge 320 of the connector 302. Theleading edge 320 may be insertable into an optical fiber port (FIG. 9),e.g., part of an optical fiber panel, to permit optical connectionbetween the optical fiber 306 and another optical fiber (notillustrated).

The second optical fiber may be threaded into a bore 322 formed in asecond inner body 324. The end of the second optical fiber can beconnected to a second ferrule 326 which protrudes from the bore 322. Thesecond inner body 324 may be fixed with respect to the housing 302. Thesecond inner body 324 can include engagement portions (not illustrated),similar to or different from the engagement portions previouslydescribed with respect to the first inner body 314, to secure the secondinner body 324 to the housing 302. The engagement portions may preventextrusion of the second inner body 324 from the housing 302 and/orprevent rotation between the second inner body 324 and the housing 302.Moreover, the engagement portions may maintain the second inner body 324at a fixed relative position with respect to the housing 302.

In certain instances, the housing 302 may include the first and secondinner bodies 314 and 324. That is, for example, the first and secondinner bodies 314 and 324 may be integral with the housing 302.Alternatively, the first and second bodies 314 and 324 can includediscrete components configured to engage with the housing 302. Forexample, the first and second bodies 314 and 324 may be engageable withthe housing 302 upon snap fitting two or more pieces of the housing 302to one another.

Like the connector 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the connector 300may further include a latch 328 extending from the housing 302. In anembodiment, the latch 328 can include a first latch 330 and a secondlatch 332. The first latch 330 can correspond with the first inner body314 and the second latch 332 can correspond with the second inner body324. That is, the first latch 330 may extend over a portion of the firstinner body 314 and the second latch 332 may extend over a portion of thesecond inner body 324.

The latch 328 (hereinafter referring to the first and second latches 330and 332 collectively as the latch 328) may be arranged to releasablylock the connector 300 with a complementary connector device. Forexample, the connector 300 may be used with an optical fiber portincluding mating components (not illustrated) configured to receivelocking formation 334 disposed on the latch 328. In the illustratedembodiment, the locking formation 334 includes a ramped surface locatedadjacent to a leading end 336 of the latch 328. The leading end 336 ofthe latch 328 can be spaced apart from the housing 302, therebypermitting the locking formation 334 to move relatively closer andfarther away from the housing 302 to lock and unlock with the opticalfiber port.

The latch 328 may be engaged with the housing 302 at a trailing end 336of the latch 328. In an embodiment, the latch 328 may be integral withthe housing 302 or a component associated therewith. That is, the latch328 may be part of the housing 302. In another embodiment, the latch 328may include one or more discrete components configured to engage withthe housing 302.

The leading end 336 of the latch 328 can be spaced apart from thetrailing end 338 of the latch 328 by a middle portion 340 of the latch328. The latch 328 can generally extend from the housing 302 in adirection toward the leading edge 320 of the connector 300. That is, forexample, the trailing end 338 of the latch 328 may extend from thehousing 302 with the middle portion 340 oriented in a directiongenerally toward the leading edge 320 of the connector 300. In such amanner, the leading end 336 of the latch 328 can be closer to theleading edge 320 of the connector 300 than the trailing end 338 of thelatch 328.

In one or more embodiments, the latch 328 may further include a handleengagement member 342 forming an interface with the handle 306. In anembodiment, the handle engagement member 342 may form a releasableinterface with the handle 306. In such a manner, the handle 306 can beselectively removed from the latch 328. In an embodiment, use of adiscrete handle 306 may permit easier formation of the connector 300 byallowing use of more complex geometry during formation, e.g., molding,processes. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle engagement member342 includes a retention member 344, e.g., a lip, configured to maintainengagement between the handle 306 and the latch 328.

The handle 306 may include a latch engagement end 346 and a pull end348. The latch engagement end 346 can include one or more openings 350configured to align with the latch 328 and other components of thehousing 302 so as to permit locking and unlocking operations asdescribed in greater detail herein. The pull end 348 of the handle 306can include a gripping area 352 configured for easier user grasp whenpulling on the handle 306.

The latch 328 in FIGS. 3 and 4 is illustrated in an unbiased state asseen without application of external force applied to the latch 328.Such configuration may be present when the connector 300 is uncoupledfrom other components, e.g., optical fiber ports. In one or moreembodiments herein, the terms “biased” and “unbiased” may be used torefer to relative positions of the latch 128 or 328 when force isapplied thereon, e.g., through the handle 106 or 306. When force isapplied on the handle 106 or 306, the latch 128 or 328 may be consideredin a biased state. Upon termination of force along the handle 106 or306, the latch 128 or 328 may return to an unbiased state. In aparticular embodiment, the latch 128 or 328 may further define a thirdstate, e.g., a locked state, where the latch 128 or 328 is coupled withcomponents, e.g., optical fiber ports. The third state may be betweenthe biased and unbiased states. That is, for example, the component,e.g., the optical fiber port, may provide slight biasing pressureagainst the latch 128 or 328 preventing full rebound from the biasedstate to the unbiased state even upon termination of force along thehandle 106 or 306. In the unbiased state, the latch 128 or 328 may be ina locked position relative to the component, e.g., the optical fiberport. In the biased state, the latch 128 or 328 may be in an unlockedposition relative to the component, i.e., the latch 128 or 328 may beremovable from the component.

In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the latch 328 can liealong a curved line 354, as viewed from a side view, when the latch 328is in the unbiased state. For instance, in one or more embodiments atleast part of the middle portion 340 of the latch 328 can lie along thecurved line 354. In an embodiment, at least 25% of a length of the latch328 lies along the curved line 354 when the latch 328 is unbiased, suchas wherein at least 35% of the length of the latch 328 lies along thecurved line 354 when the latch 328 is unbiased, such as wherein at least40% of the length of the latch 328 lies along the curved line 354 whenthe latch 328 is unbiased, such as wherein at least 45% of the length ofthe latch 328 lies along the curved line 354 when the latch 328 isunbiased, such as wherein at least 50% of the length of the latch 328lies along the curved line 354 when the latch 328 is unbiased, such aswherein at least 60% of the length of the latch 328 lies along thecurved line 354 when the latch 328 is unbiased, such as wherein at least70% of the length of the latch 328 lies along the curved line 354 whenthe latch 328 is unbiased, such as wherein at least 75% of the length ofthe latch 328 lies along the curved line 354 when the latch 328 isunbiased, such as wherein at least 80% of the length of the latch 328lies along the curved line 354 when the latch 328 is unbiased, such aswherein at least 90% of the length of the latch 328 lies along thecurved line 354 when the latch 328 is unbiased. In an embodiment, thecurved line 354 can represent a best-fit curved line associated with acurvature of the latch 328 or a portion thereof.

In one or more embodiments, the curved line 354 can define a radius ofcurvature, R₁ (FIG. 6A), as measured when the latch 328 is in anunbiased state. By way of example, R₁ may be less than 4 inches (in),such as less than 3 in, such as less than 2 in, such as less than 1.75in, such as less than 1.5 in, such as less than 1.25 in, such as lessthan 1 in, such as less than 0.75 in, or such as less than 0.5 in. Thelength or the unbiased radius of curvature, R₁, of the latch 328 mayaffect the force required to unlock the latch 328 from an optical fiberport, as described in greater detail herein.

In one or more embodiments, the latch 328 may conform to the curved line354 along the entire trailing end 338 and at least part of the middleportion 340 of the latch 328. That is, the latch 328 may define acontinuously curved profile, as measured from the housing 302 through atleast part of the middle portion 340. In an embodiment, the lockingformation 334 can lie along a portion of the latch 328 that does not liealong the curved line 354 to permit use of the latch 328 with existingoptical fiber ports having predefined engagement structure shapes anddesigns.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the connector 300 with an arrow 500indicating a pull direction for the handle 306 when unlocking theconnector 300 from an optical fiber port, and an arrow 502 indicating aresponsive deformation direction of the leading end 336 of the latch 328in response to pulling the handle 306. To decouple the connector 300from the optical fiber port, an operator can pull on the handle 306 inthe direction indicated by arrow 500. Deflection of the latch 328, e.g.,the middle portion 340 and trailing end 338, can cause downwarddeflection of the leading end 336, permitting the locking formation 334to clear a mating component (not illustrated) of the optical fiber port.Downward deflection, as used with respect to FIG. 5 is intended to referto deflection in a direction toward the housing 302.

Curvature of the latch 328 may reduce the force required in thedirection indicated by arrow 500 to move the latch 328 from the lockedposition to the unlocked position. For instance, the force required tounlock the latch 128 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 may be approximately30 Newtons (N) whereas a similar latch having a curved profile (e.g.,FIGS. 3 and 4) may unlock upon application of a force of approximately10 N.

FIG. 6A illustrates the connector 300 in a locked position, e.g., whenengaged with mating components of an optical fiber port. It should beunderstood that the locked position may correlate with an unbiased stateof the latch 328. Alternatively, the locked position may include slightdeflection of the latch 328 provided by the mating component of theoptical fiber port but less biasing, e.g., along arrow 502 (FIG. 5),than in a biased state, e.g., when the latch 328 is biased to install orremove the connector 300 from the optical fiber port. FIG. 6Billustrates the connector 300 in an unlocked position, i.e., permittingan operator to remove the connector 300 from the optical fiber port.

In the locked position (FIG. 6A), the latch 328 defines a first aspectratio, as measured by an effective length, L_(E1), of the latch 328relative to an effective height, H_(E1), of the latch 328. In theunlocked position (FIG. 6B), the latch 328 defines a second aspectratio, as measured by the effective length, L_(E2), of the latch 328relative to the effective height, H_(E2), of the latch 328. The firstaspect ratio may be defined by Equation (1).

$\begin{matrix}{\frac{L_{E1}}{H_{E1}} = {{First}\mspace{14mu}{Aspect}\mspace{14mu}{Ratio}}} & {{Equation}\mspace{14mu}(1)}\end{matrix}$

The second aspect ratio may be defined by Equation (2).

$\begin{matrix}{\frac{L_{E2}}{H_{E2}} = {{Second}\mspace{14mu}{Aspect}\mspace{14mu}{Ratio}}} & {{Equation}\mspace{14mu}(2)}\end{matrix}$

Effective lengths of the latch 328, L_(E1) and L_(E2), may be measuredby the distance between opposite ends of the latch 328, e.g., betweenthe leading end 336 and trailing end 338 of the latch 328. Effectiveheights of the latch 328, H_(E1) and H_(E2), may be measured by thedistance between a nearest major surface 356 of the housing 302, or abest fit plane relative thereto, and a farthest point 358 of the latch328, as measured perpendicular to the major surface 356 of the housing302.

As the handle 306 is pulled in the direction indicated by arrow 500 inFIG. 5, the effective length of the latch 328 may decrease while theeffective height of the latch 328 may increase. In this regard, theaspect ratio of the latch 328 may decrease as the latch 328 is movedfrom the locked position to the unlocked position.

Moreover, a radius of curvature of the latch 328 may change duringtransition between the locked position and the unlocked position. Forexample, the latch 328, or a portion thereof, may define a first radiusof curvature, R₁, as measured in the locked position (FIG. 6A), and asecond radius of curvature, R₂, as measured in the unlocked position(FIG. 6B). In an embodiment, R₁ can be greater than R₂. For instance, R₁may be at least 1.01 R₂, such as at least 1.05 R₂, such as at least 1.1R₂, such as at least 1.2 R₂, such as at least 1.3 R₂, such as at least1.4 R₂, or such as at least 1.5 R₂. In another embodiment, R₁ may be nogreater than 10 R₂, such as no greater than 7.5 R₂, or no greater than 5Ra.

As the latch 328 deforms between the locked and unlocked positions, adistance between the locking formation 334 and the housing 302 maychange. For instance, in a locked position the locking formation 334 candefine a locked distance, DL, as measured by a distance of the lockingformation 334 from the nearest major surface 356 of the housing 302 whenthe latch 328 is in the locked position, greater than an unlockeddistance, Du, as measured by a distance of the locking formation 334from the nearest major surface 356 of the housing 302 when the latch 328is in the unlocked position. The locked and unlocked distances, DL andDu, can be configured such that the connector 300 may be selectivelysecured and decoupled from the optical fiber port.

FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of a handle 700 of a connector. The handle700 can include features similar to the handles 106 or 306 previouslydescribed. In an embodiment, the handle 700 has a latch engagement end702 and a pull end 704 with a gripping area 706 configured to facilitateeasier gripping of the handle 700.

The handle 700 may include one or more openings 708 configured to alignwith the latch, e.g., latch 128 or latch 328, and other components ofthe housing, e.g., housing 102 or 302. The openings 706 can include oneor more engagement openings 710, configured to engage with the handleengagement member, e.g., handle engagement member 142 or 342, and one ormore latch opening 712 configured to receive the latch, e.g., latch 128or 328, therethrough. A tab 714 may extend into the latch opening 712.The tab 714 may be configured to extend into a gap between the first andsecond latches 130 and 132 or 330 and 332. For example, referring toFIG. 8, the tab 714 may extend into the gap 716 between the first andsecond latches 130 and 132 or 330 and 332. The tab 714 may preventtorsional misalignment of the handle 700 in a lateral direction, e.g.,along line 718, and maintain the handle 700 properly seated with respectto the rest of the connector.

FIG. 9A illustrates a connector 900 in accordance with one or moreembodiments described herein coupled with an optical fiber port 902.FIG. 9B illustrates the connector 900 with force applied to theconnector through the handle 904 to bias the locking feature, e.g., thelatch 906, to an unlocked position, permitting removal of the connector900 from the optical fiber port 902. More specifically, applying forcethrough the handle 904 can deflect the latch 906 to clear matingcomponents 908 within the optical fiber port 902. In an embodiment, aportion of the handle 904 can extend into the optical fiber port 902.The latch 906 of the connector 900 can engage with mating components 908of the optical fiber port 902 and selectively secure the connector 900to the optical fiber port 902. As the handle 904 is pulled in adirection away from the optical fiber port 902, the latch 906 candeflect downward, e.g., toward a housing 910 of the connector 900,releasing the latch 906 from the mating components 908 of the opticalfiber port 902 and permitting removal of the connector 900 from theoptical fiber port 902.

It is noted that the profile change of the curvature of the latch 906illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B is exemplary only. In certain instances,the latch 906 can deform primarily at one end thereof, along the middleportion, or a combination thereof. Among other things, the resultingprofile change of the latch 906 may be associated with the location ofthe handle engagement member 142 or 342, the design of the handleengagement member 142 or 342, the shape of the latch 906, the design ofthe handle 904, or any combination thereof. Certain profile designs maybe particularly suitable for different optical fiber ports 902 and canbe selected accordingly.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary method 1000 of decoupling a connectorfrom an optical fiber port. The method 1000 can include a step 1002 ofmoving a handle of the connector in a direction away from the opticalfiber port. The handle can be coupled to a latch of the connector. Thelatch can be coupled to a housing of the connector and can extend towarda leading edge of the connector. In an embodiment, moving the handle cancause an aspect ratio of the latch, as previously described herein, todecrease. In another embodiment, moving the handle away from the opticalfiber port can cause a radius of curvature of the latch to decrease. Ina further embodiment, moving the handle can cause the middle portion ofthe latch to move in a direction away from the housing (e.g., FIGS. 6Aand 6B). The method 1000 can further include a step 1004 of removing theconnector from the optical fiber port. In an embodiment, the method 1000can also include reattaching the connector to the optical fiber port byinserting the connector into the optical fiber port until a lockingformation of the connector engages with a mating component of theoptical fiber port. The latch may automatically move to a lockedposition upon engagement of the locking formation with the matingcomponent.

In an embodiment, the connector can be biased from a lockedconfiguration to an unlocked configuration by applying a biasing forcealong the boot of the connector. For example, FIG. 11 illustrates anembodiment of a connector 1100 in accordance with another embodimentdescribed herein. The connector 1100 can have any one or more similarfeatures and/or attributes as compared with the connector 100 previouslydescribed herein. The connector 1100 can include a housing 1102, a boot1104, and an intermediary element 1106. The housing 1102 can include anyone or more similar features as previously described with respect tohousing 102. For instance, the housing 1102 can include a latch 1108extending from a body of the housing 1102. In an embodiment, the latch1108 can include first and second portions 1110 and 1112. The first andsecond portions 1110 and 1112 can define spaces for ferrules and/orportions of optical fiber disposed within the housing 1102.

The latch 1108 may be arranged to releasably lock the connector 1100with a complementary connector device. For example, the connector 1100may be used with an optical fiber port including mating components (notillustrated) configured to receive and secure the connector 1100 throughone or more locking formations 1114 disposed on the latch 1108. In theillustrated embodiment, the locking formation(s) 1114 include rampedsurfaces located adjacent to a leading end 1116 of the latch 1108. Asdescribed in greater detail herein, the leading end 1116 of the latch1108 can be spaced apart from the housing 1102, permitting the lockingformation(s) 1114 to move relatively closer and farther away from thehousing 1102 to lock and unlock the connector 1100 with respect to theoptical fiber port. When the leading end 1116 is disposed relativelycloser to the housing 1102 it may be in an unlocked configuration.Conversely, when the leading end 1116 is relative farther spaced apartfrom the housing 1102, the connector 1100 may be in a lockedconfiguration.

The latch 1108 may be engaged with the housing 1102 at a trailing end1118 of the latch 1108. In an embodiment, the latch 1108 may be integralwith the housing 1102. That is, the latch 1108 may be integrally part ofthe housing 1102. In another embodiment, the latch 1108 may include oneor more discrete components configured to be engaged with the housing1102.

The leading end 1116 of the latch 1108 can be spaced apart from thetrailing end 1118 of the latch 1108 by a middle portion 1120 of thelatch 1108. In an embodiment, the middle portion 1120 can include amiddle portion of the latch 1108 (as viewed from a side view) between 1%and 99% of the length of the latch 1108, such as between 10% and 90% ofthe length of the latch 1108.

The latch 1108 can generally extend from the housing 1102 in a directiontoward the leading end 1116 of the connector 1100. For example, thetrailing end 1118 of the latch 1108 may extend from the housing 1102 andat least part of the middle portion 1120 can be oriented in a directiongenerally toward the leading edge 1122 of the connector 1100. Thus, theleading end 1116 of the latch 1108 may be disposed at a position closerto the leading edge 1122 of the connector 1100 than the trailing end1118 of the latch 1108. In an embodiment, the latch 1108 can becantilevered.

In one or more embodiments, the latch 1108 can further include anintermediary engagement member 1124 forming an interface configured toengage with the intermediary element 1106. In an embodiment, theintermediary engagement member 1124 may form a releasable interface withthe intermediary element 1106. In such a manner, the intermediaryelement 1106 can be selectively removable from the latch 1108. Incertain instances, the discrete intermediary element 1106 may permiteasier formation of the connector 1100 by allowing more complexconnector geometry otherwise not possible in certain formationprocesses, e.g., molding. In the illustrated embodiment, theintermediary engagement member 1124 includes a retention member, e.g., alip, configured to maintain engagement between the intermediary element1106 and the intermediary engagement member 1124. In another embodiment,the intermediary element 1106 can be integrally formed with the housing1102.

Referring to FIG. 12, the boot 1104 can include a flexible portion 1126configured to permit flexure of an optical fiber disposed therein. Theboot 1104 can further include a complementary engagement feature 1128configured to engage with an engagement feature 1130 (FIGS. 13A and 13B)of the intermediary element 1106. By way of example, the complementaryengagement feature 1128 can include a projection or recess. Thecomplementary engagement feature 1128 can further include a hook,handle, clip, snap, ridge, channel, knurling, or any other structuralfeatures to assist in engagement with the engagement feature 1130 of theintermediary element 1106. In the illustrated embodiment, thecomplementary engagement feature 1128 is disposed adjacent to a leadingedge 1132 of the boot 1104. In another embodiment, the complementaryengagement feature 1128 can be spaced apart from the leading edge 1132of the boot 1104. The complementary engagement feature 1128 can extendtoward the flexible portion 1126, e.g., an entire distance between theleading edge 1132 and the flexible portion 1126. In another embodiment,the complementary engagement feature 1128 can be spaced apart from theflexible portion 1126 of the boot 1104.

The intermediary element 1106 illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B caninclude an engagement feature 1130 having a shape and/or size configuredto engage with the complementary engagement feature 1128 of the boot1104. For example, the engagement feature 1130 can include an openingextending through the intermediary element 1106 and configured toreceive at least a portion of the complementary engagement feature 1128.In certain instances, the complementary engagement feature 1128 of theboot can move relative to the engagement feature 1130 of theintermediary element 1106. For example, the engagement feature 1130 candefine a length greater than a length of the complementary engagementfeature 1128. In such a manner, the intermediary element 1106 can movewithout creating biasing pressure against the complementary engagementfeature 1128 of the boot 1104.

In an embodiment, the engagement feature 1130 and complementaryengagement feature 1128 can be interlocked by interference with one ormore features, including for example, one or more of channels, grooves,ridges, projections, castellations, or other known interferencefeatures. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 11 to 13B, thecomplementary engagement feature 1128 includes laterally extendingguides which are dimensioned to maintain the complementary engagementfeature 1128 within the engagement feature 1130, e.g., opening, of theintermediary element 1106. Use of interference, or another similar typeof selectively engageable interface, between the engagement feature 1130and complementary engagement feature 1128 can allow an operator toassemble the boot 1104 relative to the housing 1102 more easily whilestill ensuring that the intermediary element 1106 and boot 1104 remaincoupled together during operational use of the connector 1100.

The intermediary element 1106 can have a coupling portion 1134configured to engage with the intermediary engagement member 1124 of thelatch 1108. Referring to FIG. 13A, the coupling portion 1134 can includea linear portion, such as a bar, extending transverse to a length of theintermediary element 1106. The bar can engage with the housing at two ormore locations along the latch 1108. Referring to FIG. 13B, the couplingportion 1134 can include a reinforced curved portion extendingtransverse to a length of the intermediary element 1106. The reinforcedcurved portion can exhibit reduced flexure when the intermediary element1106 is biased, e.g., from biasing force applied to the boot 1104, thusdecreasing the biasing force necessary to unlock the connector 1100 froman optical fiber port.

FIGS. 14 to 16 illustrate a connector 1400 in accordance with anotherembodiment. The connector 1400 can include one or more of the featuresof connector 100 and/or connector 1100, such as a housing 1402, a boot1404, and an intermediary element 1406. In the illustrated embodiment,the intermediary element 1406 includes an engagement feature 1408 havingraised leading and trailing portions 1410 and 1412. The raised trailingportion 1412 may provide additional support with a complementaryengagement portion 1420 of the boot 1404 to prevent detachment of theintermediary element 1406 from the boot 1404, in particular duringlocking and unlocking of the connector 1400 from an optical fiber portas described hereinafter. In an embodiment, the intermediary element1406 can further include raised lateral sides 1414 and 1416. In theillustrated embodiment, the lateral sides 1414 and 1416 define guides1418 configured to maintain the connection between the intermediaryelement 1406 and the complementary engagement portion 1420 of the boot1404.

The intermediary element 1406 can include reinforced portions, e.g.,areas with increased thickness or dimensions, to reduce material flexureand decrease the biasing force necessary to unlock the connector 1400from an optical fiber port.

FIGS. 17 to 20 illustrate a connector 1700 in accordance with anotherembodiment. The connector 1700 can include one or more of the featuresof connector 100, connector 1100 and/or connector 1400. In anembodiment, the connector 1700 includes a housing 1702, a boot 1704, andan intermediary element 1706.

The intermediary element 1706 can include an engagement feature 1708configured to engage with a complementary engagement feature 1710 of theboot 1704. In the illustrated embodiment, the complementary engagementfeature 1710 is disposed entirely on the boot 1704. In anotherembodiment, at least a portion of the complementary engagement feature1710 can be disposed on the housing 1702. In the illustrated embodiment,the engagement feature 1708 includes a channel 1712 configured to beengaged with a projection 1714 of the complementary engagement feature1710. In another embodiment, the engagement feature 1708 can include aprojection and the complementary engagement feature 1710 can include achannel. In yet further embodiments, the intermediary element 1706 andboot 1704 can include one or more other shaped features configured to beengaged together, e.g., clasps, lips, dimples, ridges, undulating orcastellated surfaces, or other elements configured to be engagedtogether.

In an embodiment, the engagement feature 1710 can further include asecondary interface 1716 configured to be engaged with a secondaryinterface 1718 of the boot 1704. By way of example, the secondaryinterfaces 1716 and 1718 can include fingers configured to extend into,e.g., clip with respect to, recesses. For example, in the illustratedembodiment, the secondary interface 1718 of the intermediary element1706 comprises fingers and the secondary interface 1716 of the boot 1704comprises recesses configured to engage with the fingers of theintermediary element 1706. The secondary interfaces 1716 and 1718, whencoupled together, can act to create a semi-permanent coupling interfacebetween the boot 1704 and the intermediary element 1706, preventingundesired detachment therebetween.

In an embodiment, the secondary interface 1716 of the boot 1704 can bereversible with respect to the secondary interface 1718 of the housing1702. That is, for example, the secondary interface 1716 can beengageable with the secondary interface 1718 when the boot 1704 isoriented at multiple rotational orientations with respect to the housing1702. By way of example, the secondary interface 1716 can include one ormore centered recesses such that the same fingers can be utilized at thesame positions in either rotational orientation of the boot 1704.Alternatively, the secondary interface 1716 can include at least tworecesses—a first recess configured to engage the fingers of thesecondary interface 1718 in a first rotational orientation and a secondrecess configured to engage the fingers of the secondary interface 1718in a second rotational orientation (e.g., 180° opposite the firstrotational orientation). In an embodiment, the recess(es) can include aplurality of recesses, such as a plurality of recesses. The number ofrecesses can correspond with the number of fingers to be engagedtherewith.

In an embodiment, the secondary interfaces 1716 and 1718 can function asattachment protocol to prevent unwanted detachment between the boot 1704and intermediary element 1706 during operation of the connector 1700.That is, the secondary interfaces 1716 and 1718 can maintain operationalcommunication between the channel 1712 of the intermediary element 1706and the projection 1714 of the boot 1704 (or vise versa), preventingundesired detachment therebetween.

In one or more embodiments, the boot 1704 can be integrally formed withthe intermediary element 1706. In an embodiment, the boot 1704 andintermediary element 1706 portions of the integral boot/intermediaryelement assembly can be formed from different materials. For example,the boot portion of the integral assembly can be formed from arelatively flexible material and the intermediary element portion of theintegral assembly can be formed from a relatively less flexiblematerial. The integral assembly may be formed, for example, throughovermolding or another multi-material capable process(es).

FIG. 21 shows the connector 1700 in a locked configuration, where alatch 1720 of the housing 1702 is configured to engage with matingcomponents on an optical fiber port. FIG. 22 shows the connector 1700 inan unlocked configuration, where the latch 1720 is disposed at aposition such that the connector 1700 can pass freely from the opticalfiber port. A user can selectively transition the connector 1700 fromthe locked configuration to the unlocked configuration by applying abiasing force to the boot 1704 in a direction, such as the directionillustrated by arrow 1722, generally away from the housing 1702.

In an embodiment, the housing 1702 and boot 1704 can be configured tofloat relative to one another. As used herein, “float” refers to aconnection type between the housing 1702 and boot 1704 whereby the twocomponents are coupled together and can be moved relative to oneanother. For instance, the housing 1702 and boot 1704 can be trackedrelative to one another so as to remain coupled together whilepermitting displacement therebetween along the tracked engagementinterface. The housing 1702 and boot 1704 can float relative to oneanother in the locked configuration and in the unlocked configuration.In one or more embodiments, the housing 1702 and boot 1704 can beselectively fixed together to prevent relative float therebetween. Forexample, the connector 1700 may include an engageable interconnect (notillustrated) between the housing 1702 and boot 1704 that allows anoperator to selectively lock the two components together and preventdisplacement of the boot 1704 relative to the housing 1702. In such amanner, the operator can selectively prevent the housing 1702 and boot1704 from floating relative to each other.

In the unlocked configuration, a gap 1724 can form between a surface1726 of the housing 1702 and a surface 1728 of the boot 1704. In anotherembodiment, the gap 1724 may be formed between adjacent portions of theboot 1704 or adjacent portions of the housing 1706. That is, forexample, the surfaces 1726 and 1728 can both be part of the boot 1704 orboth be part of the housing 1706. In a non-illustrated embodiment, forexample, the boot 1704 may include a first portion coupled with thehousing 1702 and a second portion that is axially displaceable withrespect to the first portion. In such a manner, the operator can openthe latch 1720 by applying biasing force to the second portion of theboot 1704.

The gap 1724 can increase in size as the boot 1704 is biased away fromthe housing 1702. An interfacing portion 1730 can remain disposedbetween the housing 1702 and boot 1704 when the connector 1700 is in theunlocked configuration in order to prevent axial misalignment betweenthe housing 1702 and boot 1704. The interfacing portion 1730 may bereceived, for example, in a recess of at least one of the housing 1702and boot 1704 to restrict transverse movement between the housing 1702and the boot 1704. In an embodiment, the interfacing portion 1730 can bepart of the boot 1704. In another embodiment, the interfacing portion1730 can be part of the housing 1702. In yet another embodiment, theinterfacing portion 1730 can be at least partially formed by the housing1702 and the boot 1704. In another embodiment, the interfacing portion1730 can include a discrete component that floats relative to thehousing 1702, the boot 1704, or both the housing 1702 and boot 1704. Inone or more embodiments, the interfacing portion 1730 or another portionof the connector 1700 can maintain the boot 1704 within a predefineddistance from the housing 1702 upon application of biasing force alongthe boot 1704. Thus, for instance, the boot 1704 and housing 1702 canremain coupled together and cannot be separated upon application of alarge force, e.g., an accidental shock force, applied on the boot 1704in the direction of arrow 1722.

The length, L₁, of the connector 1700 in the locked configuration (FIG.21) as measured between a leading edge 1732 of the connector 1700 and atrailing edge 1734 of the connector 1700, can be different than thelength, L₂, of the connector 1700 in the unlocked configuration (FIG.22) as measured between the leading edge 1732 and the trailing edge1734. In an embodiment, L₂ is greater than L₁. For example, L₂ can be atleast 1.01 L₁, such as at least 1.02 L₁, such as at least 1.03 L₁, suchas at least 1.04 L₁, such as at least 1.05 L₁, such as at least 1.075L₁, such as at least 1.1 L₁. In one or more embodiments, the change inlength between L₁ and L₂ can be accommodated by a corresponding increasein size of the gap 1730 between the housing 1702 and the boot 1704.While nominal material elasticity may cause slight connector elongationduring application of biasing forces along the boot 1704 in certaininstances almost all of the length change associated with application ofa biasing force along the boot 1704 can correspond with an increased gap1730 size. For example, at least 75% of the change in length of theconnector 1700 can correspond with a change in size of the gap 1730,such as at least 85% of the change in length of the connector 1700 cancorrespond with a change in size of the gap 1730, such as at least 95%of the change in length of the connector 1700 can correspond with achange in size of the gap 1730, such as at least 99% of the change inlength of the connector 1700 can correspond with a change in size of thegap 1730, such as at least 99.9% of the change in length of theconnector 1700 can correspond with a change in size of the gap 1730. Ina more particular embodiment, the length change of the connector 1700when moving between locked and unlocked configurations can correspondentirely with the size change of the gap 1730.

In an embodiment, the length of the connector 1700 can increase by atleast 0.1 mm when moved from the locked to unlocked configuration, suchas by at least 0.5 mm when moved from the locked to unlockedconfiguration, such as by at least 1 mm when moved from the locked tounlocked configuration, such as by at least 1.5 mm when moved from thelocked to unlocked configuration, such as by at least 2 mm when movedfrom the locked to unlocked configuration, such as by at least 3 mm whenmoved from the locked to unlocked configuration, such as by at least 5mm when moved from the locked to unlocked configuration, such as by atleast 10 mm when moved from the locked to unlocked configuration.

The connector 1700 may return to the locked configuration upontermination of application of the biasing force on the boot 1704. In oneor more embodiments, the connector 1700 can automatically return to thelocked configuration upon termination of the application of the biasingforce on the boot 1704. For example, in an embodiment, the biasing forcetransmitted through the boot 1704 can be stored, e.g., in the latch1720. When the biasing force is terminated, the stored energy can biasthe boot 1704 back to a location more proximate to the housing 1702,e.g., the locked configuration. In other embodiments, the connector 1700may require manual manipulation to switch the connector 1700 to thelocked configuration from the unlocked configuration. For instance, theconnector 1700 can include one or more clips, detents, snaps, or othersimilar features which selectively prevent return of the connector 1700to the locked configuration. In such embodiments, the operator canselectively manipulate the connector 1700 to either release a storedenergy or manually move the connector 1700 back to the lockedconfiguration.

Referring now to FIGS. 23 to 27, a connector 2300 in accordance with anembodiment can include an integrated boot 2302 generally including aboot 2304 and a handle 2306 configured to be secured together through aninterface, such as interface 2308. The interface 2308 can includecomplementary engagement features disposed on the boot 2304 and handle2306, such as for example, a projection 2310 and an opening 2312configured to receive the projection 2310. In the illustratedembodiment, the projection 2310 is shown as part of the handle 2306 andthe opening 2312 as part of the boot 2304. In other embodiments, theprojection 2310 can be part of the boot 2304 and the projection 2310 canbe part of the handle 2306. In yet further embodiments, thecomplementary engagement features can include other attachment protocol,including for example, bayonet connections, interference fits, clips,clamps, and the like.

As illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 24, in a particular embodiment theprojection 2310 can include a lip 2314 configured to seat relative to asurface of the opening 2312 so as to prevent the projection 2310 frominadvertently pulling therefrom. The lip 2314 can be disposed on a splitprojection 2310, including for example, two or more axially extendingportions spaced apart at least partially by a gap. In such a manner, thesplit projection 2310 can deform to permit the lip 2314 to pass throughthe opening 2312 during installation of the integrated boot 2302.

In an embodiment, installation of the boot 2304 and handle 2306 can beperformed by translating the boot 2304 and handle 2306 together in adirection generally parallel with the interface 2308. In anotherembodiment, installation of the boot 2304 and handle 2306 can includerotation and/or pivoting of one or both of the boot 2304 and handle 2306in combination with, or instead of, translation therebetween.

Referring to FIG. 25, in an embodiment, the lip 2314 can be replaced bya flange 2316. The flange 2316 can extend in a direction generallyperpendicular to the projection 2310 and engage with the opening 2312.In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 2312 has a generallypolygonal shape, e.g., square shape. The opening 2312 can be sizedand/or shaped to correspond with the shape of the lip 2314 or flange2316. In an embodiment, the opening 2312 can define a tight fit with thelip 2314 or flange 2316 so as to prevent undesired detachmenttherebetween during use.

Referring to FIGS. 26 and 27, the integrated boot 2302 can appear as asingle piece in the assembled state. When force is applied along theintegrated boot 2302 in a direction generally parallel with arrow A, theintegrated boot 2302 can create pressure on a latch 2318 of theconnector 2300 to transition the connector 2300 from a lockedconfiguration to an unlocked configuration. Similarly, when applicationof force is terminated, the latch 2318 can return to the lockedconfiguration as previously described.

Connectors in accordance with one or more embodiments described hereinmay facilitate easier installation and removal of an optical fiberconnector with respect to one or more optical fiber ports. Specifically,installation of the optical fiber connector can include translating theoptical fiber connector into the optical fiber port until one or morelatches of the connector engage with mating components of the port whileremoval can be performed by pulling on a handle of the optical fiberconnector and pulling the optical fiber connector from the port. Use ofa curved latch with locking formation(s) may reduce the force requiredto disengage the connector from the optical fiber port.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention,including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the invention, including making and using any devices orsystems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope ofthe invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examplesthat occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intendedto be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elementsthat do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if theyinclude equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differencesfrom the literal languages of the claims.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A connector for optically connecting an opticalfiber to an optical fiber port, the connector defining a first length,L₁, as measured between a leading edge and a trailing edge of theconnector when the connector is in a locked configuration, and a secondlength, L₂, as measured between the leading edge and the trailing edgeof the connector when the connector is in an unlocked configuration,wherein L₁ is different than L₂.
 22. The connector of claim 1, whereinL₂ is greater than L₁.
 23. The connector of claim 1, wherein theconnector comprises a boot and a housing, and wherein the boot andhousing are configured to float relative to one another.
 24. Theconnector of claim 3, wherein the boot is coupled to the housing throughan intermediary element coupled between a latch of the housing and acomplimentary engagement feature on the boot.
 25. The connector of claim4, wherein the complementary engagement feature comprises at least oneof a protrusion or a recess.
 26. The connector of claim 1, wherein theconnector comprises a receiving fiber and a transmitting fiber, andwherein relative positions of the receiving and transmitting fibers arereversible with respect to a latch of the connector.
 27. A connectorassembly for optically connecting an optical fiber to an optical fiberport, the connector comprising: a housing configured to receive theoptical fiber, the housing including a latch configured to selectivelycouple the housing to the optical fiber port; and a boot having a boreconfigured to receive the optical fiber; wherein displacing the bootrelative to the housing causes the latch to be unlocked from the opticalfiber port.
 28. The connector of claim 7, further comprising: anintermediary element coupled to the latch and the boot, whereindisplacing the boot relative to the housing causes the intermediaryelement to bias the latch to an unlocked configuration.
 29. Theconnector of claim 8, wherein the intermediary element comprises anengagement feature configured to engage with a complimentary engagementfeature on the boot, the complementary engagement feature beingconfigured to transmit force applied on the boot to the latch of thehousing.
 30. The connector of claim 7, wherein the housing and boot aredisposed at a first relative position with respect to one another whenthe connector is in a locked configuration and a second relativeposition with respect to one another when the connector is in anunlocked configuration, and wherein the second relative positionincludes a gap between the housing and boot with a gap size greater thana gap in the first relative position.
 31. The connector of claim 7,wherein a length of the connector, as measured between a leading edge ofthe housing and a trailing edge of the boot, changes when the connectoris transitioned between locked and unlocked configurations.
 32. Theconnector of claim 11, wherein the length is greater in the unlockedconfiguration.
 33. The connector of claim 7, wherein the latch comprisesa first radius of curvature in the locked configuration and a secondradius of curvature in the unlocked configuration, and wherein the firstradius of curvature is greater than the second radius of curvature. 34.The connector of claim 7, wherein the optical fiber comprises areceiving fiber and a transmitting fiber, and wherein relative positionsof the receiving and transmitting fibers are reversible with respect tothe latch.
 35. A method of releasing a connector from an optical fiberport, the method comprising: applying a biasing force to a boot of theconnector in a direction away from a housing of the connector, thehousing comprising a latch configured to selectively couple theconnector to the optical fiber port, wherein applying the biasing forceto the boot causes a length of the connector, as measured by a lengthbetween a leading edge of the housing and a trailing edge of the boot,to change; and removing the connector from the optical fiber port afterthe latch is transitioned to an unlocked configuration.
 36. The methodof claim 15, wherein applying the biasing force to the boot causes anintermediary element coupled between the boot and the latch to move thelatch from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration.
 37. Themethod of claim 15, wherein applying the biasing force to the bootcauses the length of the connector to increase.
 38. The method of claim15, wherein the boot and housing are spaced apart by a gap having firstdistance, D₁, as measured when the connector is in a lockedconfiguration, and a second distance, D₂, as measured when the connectoris in an unlocked configuration, and wherein D₂ is greater than D₁. 39.The method of claim 15, wherein the housing contains a receiving fiberand a transmitting fiber, and wherein relative positions of thereceiving and transmitting fibers are reversible with respect to thelatch.
 40. The method of claim 15, further comprising installing theconnector into the same or another optical fiber port, wherein thelength of the connector remains unchanged during installation into thesame or other optical fiber port.